Due to solubility properties, it is often necessary to keep particles in suspension within a solution manually. For example, the creation of a supersaturates solution requires that it hold more solute in the solvent than is traditionally able to be dissolved. This solute cannot be allowed to settle out, because that would preclude its ability to be dissolved. There is a standard laboratory procedure for maintaining suspensions within a solvent. This process uses standard laboratory equipment available to any researcher or student.
- Magnetic heating mantle
- Stir bar
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Instructions
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1
Place the vessel containing the solvent and solute on the magnetic heating mantle.
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2
Turn the heat setting of the heating mantle a few degrees, usually 5 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit, above standard room temperature.
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3
Drop the magnetic stir bar into the vessel.
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4
Turn on the magnetic stirring feature. This is most often done by turning a small analog knob. The magnetic stir speed should be set only as high as necessary. Excessive speed may result in a loss of material from the opening of the vessel.